As the omicron COVID-19 variant continues to spread throughout the United States like wildfire, the American Heart Association (AHA) has issued a new statement highlighting its continued support of all CDC vaccination recommendations.
In addition to promoting COVID-19 vaccines for all adults and children five years old and older, the AHA noted that all people 12 years old and older should also receive a booster dose as soon as they are eligible.
The AHA also highlighted the fact, even as breakthrough cases increase among vaccinated individuals, “the vast majority of people hospitalized with severe COVID-19 infection are unvaccinated or have severely compromised immune systems.”
“COVID-19 vaccination and boosters continue to be our No. 1 defense to save lives and protect against COVID-19 infection, severe illness and death,” according to the statement. “The benefits of the vaccines and boosters far outweigh the risks of rare, serious adverse effects. The CDC’s safety protocols continue to include mask wearing for all people regardless of vaccination status when indoors, frequent handwashing and social distancing.”
The full AHA statement is available here.
Michael has more than 16 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.